The Kelly Fund was established from a bequest of the Flora A. Kelly Estate with the intent of providing long-term financial support for fulfilling present and future needs of the City of Onawa.

The mission of the Kelly fund is to enhance the quality of life for present and future generations of the City of Onawa and surrounding area.  Grants are funded annually based on funds availability.

This program is available for residential or commercial housing development.

For residential housing, the program involves a 100% abatement of taxes up to $75,000 of assessed value for 5 years.  All qualified real estate assessed as residential property is eligible to receive a one hundred percent (100%) exemption from taxation on the first seventy five thousand dollars ($75,000) of actual value added by the improvements. The exemption is for a period of five (5) years. Improvements must increase the assessed value by a minimum of 10%.

For commercial housing, the program involves a 100% abatement of taxes on actual value for a period of 3 years.  All qualified real estate assessed as commercial and/or industrial property is eligible to receive a 100% exemption on the actual value added by the improvements.  The exception is for a period of three (3) years.  Commercial includes property that consists of 3 or more separate living quarters with at least 75% of the space used for residential purposes.  Improvements must increase the assessed value by a minimum of 10%.



Exterior Façade Program (updated and expanded 4/25/17)

The Exterior Facade Program is available to businesses that improve the exterior or façade of their businesses. A $2500 matching grant and loan are available. Some eligibility requirements and other guidelines apply.

Exterior Facade Application


Please contact the City Office for additional information and guidelines to all of Onawa's programs. 

City of Onawa
914 Diamond Street, Onawa, Iowa 51040
Phone: 712-423-1181
Fax: 712-433-4622